Republican Indiana state Rep. Milo Smith will file legislation that would require the Indianapolis Colts to offer fans refunds if players of the home team kneel during the national anthem.
“To me when they take a knee during the national anthem, it’s not respecting the national anthem or our country,” Smith told the Indy Star Thursday. “Our government isn’t perfect, but it’s still the best country in the world and I think we need to be respectful of it.” (RELATED: ‘Sunday Night Football’ Ratings Jump Up From Last Week’s)
NASHVILLE, TN – OCTOBER 16: Adoree’ Jackson #25 of the Tennessee Titans breaks up a pass to T.Y. Hilton #13 of the Indianapolis Colts during the first half at Nissan Stadium on October 16, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
The proposed bill would allow fans to request a refund of their ticket during the first quarter, but only if Colts players kneel during the singing of the national anthem and only if it happens at Lucas Oil Stadium. If players from the visiting team kneel, fans would have no recourse.
A representative for the Colts declined to comment on the proposed legislation.
Smith shared that he came up with the idea after he attended a home game earlier this year with this daughter when the Colts played the Cleveland Brows and a handful of players kneeled. He said while he was upset, he didn’t leave the game.
“I’m pretty patriotic, and it didn’t sit right with me,” Smith explained.
He added that his proposal isn’t stopping anyone from kneeling, which would be illegal.